Herbs health benefits

Lavender

Some of the most important health benefits of lavender include its ability to relieve stress, improve mood, promote restful sleep, reduce inflammation, lower skin irritation, prevent infections, eliminate dandruff, and soothe stomach bloating.

Common Vervain ( medical iron-herb)

Improves Mood. One of the most prominent uses for vervain tea is its ability to help naturally boost mood and reduce feelings of anxiety. This is because drinking vervain tea can help relax the nervous system, which can stimulate feelings of relaxation and even help to encourage a good night of rest. Those who have trouble getting to sleep at night, may take comfort in a cup of vervain tea half an hour before bed. Vervain tea has even been said to help women who are suffering from side effects of premenstrual syndrome.

Aids Digestion.You can also drink vervain tea regularly as a natural tonic that can help improve your digestive system. For common problems such as flatulence, bloating, cramping, or general stomach pains, vervain tea is a great choice. Drink this tea with a meal if you are looking for a way to promote better digestion. Vervain tea has even been noted as being able to improve nutrient absorption in the body.

Schisandra

Schisandra tea is often used as a treatment for depression or a variety of stress-related illnesses. This tea balances a variety of mental functions. Patients who are depressed will notice their mood stabilizing. Those dealing with an excessive amount of stress will find that it is easier to deal with and takes less of a toll on the body. Schizandra berry tea can make you feel stronger and more energized. It also helps to increase mental focus, clarity and memory. Schisandra tea may even reduce physical exhaustion.

Mountain Clover

A delicate sweet and medicinal red clover tea is made from the fresh or dried flowers, it is alterative, anti scrofulous, antispasmodic, aperient, detergent, diuretic, estrogenic, expectorant, sedative and tonic. Mountain or Red Clover has also shown anticancer activity, poultices of the herb have been used as local applications to cancerous growths.

Rosehip flowers

Rose hips have been used since the Stone Age. Rose hips have a high vitamin A content. Vitamin A is commonly referred to as the “skin vitamin”. It helps to regenerate skin cells, healing wounds and scars. It also helps to keep the skin elastic and nourished. This will not only prevent wrinkles, but can actually help to minimize any that have already appeared.

The vitamin A is also beneficial to the immune system. It can help to prevent infections from both bacteria and viruses. It helps the immune system to fight off any infections that do occur too.

Many complementary medicine physicians use rose hips to treat wounds and inflammations. Research in Denmark and Germany used a rose hip remedy. The results showed that the remedy was actually very beneficial in treating rheumatoid arthritis. The group taking the remedy had an improvement in their mobility by 20 to 25%. They experienced less pain and a general overall improvement in mood and the way they felt. The studies showed significant improvement in individuals suffering from osteoarthritis as well, proving the anti-inflammatory properties.

Because they contain a variety of antioxidants; carotenoids, flavonoids, polyphenols, leucoanthocyanins and catechins, rose hips are considered to be a good cancer preventative. These same antioxidants are also used to prevent against cardiovascular disease.

St. John’s wort

St. John’s Wort herb is a restorative tonic for the nervous system. It acts as a sedative and antidepressant and has an effect on both the mind as well as the body. Called Good Earth Medicinals, they have been proven safe and effective in helping to ease symptoms of the flu, insomnia, tension, colds and indigestion.

St. John’s wort is often used for alleviating anxiety, stress, seasonal affective disorder, insomnia and depression. James Duke, an ethnobotanist and author of The Green Pharmacy calls it “simply the best herbal treatment for depression.” Like serotonin-reuptake inhibitors, St. John’s wort is believed to work by allowing more serotonin to linger in the brain, as low serotonin levels have been linked with depression. The herb may also lower levels of the protein interleukin-6—high levels of this protein are also associated with depression.

Wild Rose

Antioxidants. Rosebuds, rose hips from the stem of the plant and rose petals have high levels of vitamin C in raw form, according to a report filed with the Food and Drug Administration. When you acquire yours be sure to check the vitamin C levels as it can be reduced through some processes. Vitamin C boosts the immune system, promotes healthy skin and bones and helps the body absorb iron. Rosebud tea is high in other antioxidants called catechin polyphenols, particularly epigallocatechin gallate, known as EGCG. Antioxidants are molecules that help protect our body from free-radical damage, which can cause cancer. EGCG has also be shown to kill cancer cells without harming healthy cells surrounding them.

Caffeine. Rosebud tea contains natural caffeine. In the ChoiTime.com, we see that there is less caffeine in rose tea compared to coffee. One 8 oz. serving of rose tea contains anywhere from 30 to 60mg of caffeine, while a traditional cup of coffee contains more than 100mg of caffeine. According to Medline Plus, caffeine gives a boost of energy while stimulating the central nervous system. It also boosts the body’s metabolism.

Thyme

A recent study found that an extract was able to significantly reduce the heart rate in rats with high blood pressure, and was also able to lower their cholesterol. Getting all the vitamins your body needs every day can be challenging. Luckily, thyme is packed with vitamin C and is also a good source of vitamin A. If you feel a cold coming on, thyme can help get you back in shape.

Another health benefit of thyme: it’s also a good source of copper, fiber, iron and manganese.

Astragalus

Astragalus appears to work by stimulating the immune system. It hasantioxidant effects that inhibit free radical production. In the body, free radicals damage cells and are linked to many health problems associated with aging. There is, though, no known way to stop free radicals completely.

Astragalus is a natural dietary supplement that’s used for various health conditions. For instance, it’s used to treat the common cold, upper respiratory infections,fibromyalgia, and diabetes.Some proponents of astragalus use it for its heart benefits. They claim it may protect against heart disease. It’s also used to help improve overall weakness.

Proponents also say astragalus stimulates thespleen, liver, lungs, circulatory, and urinary system. It’s also used to treatarthritis, asthma, and nervous conditions as well as to lower bloodsugar and blood pressure.

Echinacea

A powerful immune booster. In comparison with antibiotics, Echinacea works by stimulating our own immune system. Antibiotics instead destroy both harmful and beneficial bacteria.

As a result of using Echinacea instead of antibiotics your immune system becomes better able to deal with infections and viruses – as they happen.

Plantain

Not to be confused with the banana-like fruit of the same name, the Plantago major is a green, weedy plant native to North America, Europe and Asia. Cultures around the world have used the plantain leaf (Plantago major) to help relieve health ailments for millennia. The plant is one of nine sacred herbs mentioned in the ancient Lacnunga (‘Remedies’), a collection of Anglo-Saxon medical texts. During the 1500s and 1600s, it was used by Europeans for everything from dog bites and boils to fevers and the flu .

The major components of plantain are iridoid glycosides (particularly aucubin), mucilage,and tannins. Together, they are believed to reduce irritation, quell harmful organisms, and exhibit expectorant actions.

Plantain tea is often used in the treatment of various respiratory problems, as it acts as a mild expectorant. These include asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, sore throats, and coughs. Plantain tea can also be used to lower blood pressure and control sugar blood levels.

Drinking plantain tea can help you if you’ve got diarrhea or dysentery. It is also usedto treat irritated or bleeding hemorrhoids, kidney and bladder problems, bleeding caused by cystitis, and urinary tract infections.

Plantain tea can be used topically, as well. It works as an antivenin, and it also promotes the healing of various wounds, skin inflammations, scars, cuts, rashes, and swellings. It can also be applied to the eye, in case your eyes are irritated.

Calendula

Calendula contains chemicals, which have been shown in animal studies to speed up wound-healing by several actions that include increasing blood flow to the affected area and promoting the production of collagen proteins. Calendula also possesses anti-septic and anti-inflammatory effects due to its flavonoid content. Calendula soothes sore throat or mouth tissue. Calendula works to fight Candida albicans—a yeast imbalance that can lead to everything from yeast infections in women to mood swings, inflammation, and fatigue. It also promotes liver and gallbladder health, improves digestion, and aids in soothing PMS.

Oregano

Oregano is a wonderful perennial culinary and medicinal herb. It has long been recognized as one of the “functional foods” for its nutritional, anti-oxidants and disease preventing properties. The herb, whose name means “delight of the mountains” in Greek, is native to the Mediterranean region.

Yarrow

Yarrow is one of the most useful wound herbs we have as it staunches bleeding and is antimicrobial and pain relieving too.

Yarrow for Colds and Fevers: It’s next greatest claim to fame is it’s ability to make us sweat. When fever is building, drinking hot teas of yarrow can help it to break by relaxing the circulation and the pores of the skin, allowing us to sweat freely and ridding the body of infection. Dr Christopher once wrote, “Yarrow, when administered hot and copiously, will raise the heat of the body, equalise the circulation and produce perspiration.” It may seem inadvisable to raise the body heat in cases of fever but by using yarrow we are supporting the body in responding to infection naturally. The classic formula for colds and flus is yarrow, peppermint and elderflower which should be drunk as a hot tea as soon as possible. The the patient should then wrap up warmly, keeping a hot water bottle at their feet and wait to sweat. When there is a high body temperature but no sweating, this formula is especially useful to help release the heat via the skin. Now is the time to get these herbs in stock before the cold and flu season strikes.

Chicory

One of the most common reasons for adding chicory to a diet isto improve various functions of the digestive system. Chicory contains, inulin, which is a powerful probiotic. Probiotics are a classification of bacteria that actually confer benefits on the host, rather than diseases, which is what bacteria is commonly associated with. Inulin is used to combat a number of intestinal and digestive concerns, including acid reflux disease, indigestion, and heartburn because it actively reduces the acidity of the body’s systems.

Heart Disease: Inulin is not only beneficial for the digestive system, it has also been shown to reduce the levels of “bad” cholesterol in the body. This LDL cholesterol is one of the main causes behind atherosclerosis and high blood pressure, because it somewhat blocks the flow of blood when it binds to arteries and veins. It can also contribute to the possibility of heart attacks and strokes.

Melissa

May block some of the activity of thyroid hormone in the body. Therefore, it has been used in the past to treat Grave’s disease, an auto-immune condition in which the thyroid gland produces excess thyroid hormone. Although laboratory and animal studies show that Melissa (lemon balm) may help decrease thyroid in the body.

Mental Clarity, Concentration and Relaxation. It reduces anxiety and stress and eases sleep disorders. It greatly increased the ability to concentrate and perform word and picture tasks.

Hops

Hops has been traditionally used for variety of health benefits that lately has been confirmed through research. Among these health benefits from hops include relaxation and sleep inducer, anti-inflammatory effect, estrogenic effect, antioxidant activity and as an anti tumor properties.

The leaves of hops contain chemicals that have sedative effects. These chemicals may be beneficial in relieving anxiety and to induce relaxation and sleep. This has been confirmed by a study published in Phytomedicine, 2006 where it has been reported that the ethanolic and CO2 extracts from hops reduced the locomotor activity and body temperature while increasing the ketamine-induced sleep confirming the central sedative effects of hops.

Geranium

Stress Reliever: The impact of geranium on the nervous system is well known and the plant has been used in this way for generations. If you brew the leaves of the geranium plant, you can produce a tasty tea that has soothing properties, derived from its organic compounds and chemicals that positively impact the endocrine system and help to balance hormones that cause stress and anxiety. A quick cup of tea when you’re stressed can quickly relieve unpleasant moods and a cluttered mind.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties: One of the other common uses of geranium is to relieve inflammation throughout the body. If you suffer from sore joints, aching muscles, or even internal inflammation of the gut or cardiovascular system, an easily prepared geranium tea can quickly relieve this discomfort and reduce the strain on your body’s sensitive areas.

Pain Reliever: Although quite similar to its anti-inflammatory properties, the analgesic ability of geranium has made it a popular traditional remedy for headaches and other injuries. If you suffer from chronic pain or migraines, research has shown that geranium tea can release endorphins and relieve pain quite rapidly. This effect is relatively mild, and shouldn’t be relied on for permanent pain relief.

Kidney Health: Although the exact chemical pathway is still being researched, some of the volatile components of geranium can improve the health of the kidneys and stimulate urination, which helps to detoxify the body and eliminate excess salts, fats, and water from the body. This can help to reduce the strain on your kidneys and prevent toxins from making their way to other parts of the body.

Immune System Aid: Geranium has natural antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-fungal properties, which make it a wonderful cold and flu reliever if you feel yourself getting sick. Preparing a cup of geranium tea or even chewing on the leaves (remember, only rose-scented geranium) can help to flush your body with antibacterial compounds that will boost the strength of your immune system and promote a quick recovery from a variety of illnesses. This can help prevent internal and external pathogens from negatively impacting the body.

Mint

Digestion: Mint is a great appetizer or palate cleanser, and it promotes digestion. It also soothes stomachs in cases of indigestion or inflammation. When you feel sick to your stomach, drinking a cup of mint tea can give you relief. Also, if you are someone who travels long distances via plane or boat, the menthol oil derived from mint can be very soothing for nausea and related motion sickness.

The aroma of mint activates the salivary glands in our mouth as well as glands which secrete digestive enzymes, thereby facilitating digestion. These attributes are why mint is extensively used in the culinary arts. Much of the western world includes mint as a part of appetizers or as an element of palate cleansers, to be eaten before the main course so the food will digest comfortably.

Nausea & Headache: Again, the strong and refreshing aroma of mint is a quick and effective remedy for nausea. Even just the smell of mint oil or freshly crushed mint leaves or the use of any product with mint flavor, and your stomach issues will be alleviated. In fact, many people keep menthol oil or mint-flavored products with them at all time to avoid nausea. Balms with a mint base or basic mint oil, when rubbed on the forehead and nose, gives quick relief in case of headache. Mint is a naturally soothing substance, so it can alleviate the inflammation and temperature rise that is often associated with headaches and migraines.

Nausea and Vomiting: When it comes to being sick, few things are as unpleasant as being nauseous or vomiting. Peppermint tea is antispasmodic, so it reduces the chances of vomiting and nausea, even in cases of motion sickness on a boat or a plane. It also reduces the stomachaches and queasiness associated with motion sickness, and its anti-inflammatory qualities can return your stomach to normal.

Respiratory Issues: As an antispasmodic, it can also relieve you of that irritating sensation that makes you want to cough, thereby exacerbating your respiratory condition. By relaxing the muscles of the throat and chest, you can eliminate that aspect of cold and flu symptoms.

Immune System: Peppermint tea has known antibacterial properties, which are the cause of so many illnesses, including fevers, coughs, and colds. Not only can drinking this delicious tea help you treat the symptoms of being ill, it can also prevent your body from getting sick in the first place! There are also trace elements of vitamin B, potassium, antioxidants and calcium, which can help your body uptake nutrients to fight off illness and perform necessary function to keep your body working in a healthy way.

Oats

Oats, via their high fiber content, are already known to help remove cholesterol from the digestive system that would otherwise end up in the bloodstream.

While most people are familiar with the cholesterol-reducing benefits of eating oats, you may be surprised to find that the stems, flowers and milky seeds of the oat plant – commonly called oatstraw – are also highly medicinal. Traditionally, a tea – or infusion – made of oatstraw has been used to treat a variety of ailments, from broken bones to sexual dysfunction. High in calcium and other minerals, an infusion of oatstraw is an herbal remedy that can nourish the body at the deepest level, according to master herbalist Susan Weed.

Oatstraw is a known nervine, meaning that it soothes and nourishes the central nervous system. It may be helpful in treating anxiety, insomnia and nervousness, according to Finnish herbalist Henriette Kress. Weed promotes the use of oatstraw infusion for those whose anxiety is accompanied by excessive nervous energy. She also proposes that oatstraw can soothe an over-stressed nervous system, providing centered, calm energy. The B vitamins may be one reason that oatstraw tea has such a beneficial action on stress.

Elderberries

Modern research holds that elderberries may have anti-inflammatory, antiviral properties.

Flavonoids are another ingredient that places elderberries in the category of “antioxidant-rich,” capable of preventing cell damage. One study suggested that the elderberry extract called Sambucol could shorten flu duration by up to three days.

Other traditional uses of elderberry flowers are as external antiseptic washes and poultices to treat wounds, and as an eye wash for conjunctivitis and eye inflammation. It’s been used for cosmetic purposes for millennia due to the reputation of distilled elderberry flower water to soften, tone, and restore the skin and lighten freckles. The flowers can also be steeped in oil to make a lotion that relaxes sore muscles and soothes burns, sunburn, and rashes.

Chemicals in both the flowers and berries may help diminish swelling in mucous membranes like sinuses and help relieve nasal congestion. Herbalists still use it to soothe children’s upset stomachs and relieve gas. Elderberries are reputed to have diuretic and detoxifying properties, and therefore considered good for weight management.

To begin with, elderberries are a very good source of fiber vitamin A, providing 17 percent of the daily value, but eclipsed by infection-fighting vitamin C with 87 percent – reportedly more than any other plant besides black currants and rosehips. Other prominent ingredients in elderberries include iron (13 percent of the daily value) as well as potassium, vitamin B6, and lots of betacarotene.

Wild Strawberries

Wild strawberry leaf tea may be a great option for those who want to keep their antioxidant levels topped up and are looking for a caffeine-free alternative to green tea or black tea. A study published in the Czech Journal of Food Sciences found that a water extract of wild strawberry leaves had the strongest antioxidant activity among the tested herb and berry extracts, as measured by DPPH free radical scavenging ability. This study assessed the antioxidant activity of water extracts of 17 medicinal herbs and berries, including oregano tops, blackberry leaves, raspberry leaves, rosehips, thyme tops, nettle flowers, mint, elderflowers, linden flowers, chamomile flowers, blueberries, rowan berries and sea-buckthorn berries.

Vasodilatory Effects. While it is too early to state that wild strawberry leaf tea is good for people with high blood pressure, the results of early research carried out in animals have been promising. A Croatian study published in the journal Phytomedicine in 2009 found that an aqueous extract of wild strawberry leaves had marked vasodilatory activity in isolated guinea pig hearts and rat aortic rings. In terms of potency, the vasodilatory effects of the wild strawberry leaf extract were similar to those of hawthorn extracts. The vasodilatory effects of hawthorn leaf extracts have been well documented, which is why the researchers chose hawthorn (Crataegus oxycantha, L) as the reference plant for this study.

As you may know, vasodilators are substances that dilate blood vessels. They work by relaxing the muscles in the walls of your arteries, allowing the blood flow more easily. As a result, your heart doesn’t have to pump as hard and your blood pressure is reduced.

Wild Strawberry Leaves Contain Ellagic Acid. You may have already heard of ellagic acid, a compound that has been shown to neutralize cancer-causing substances, boost the immune system, and induce apoptosis (self-destruction) of cancerous cells. Wild strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, pomegranates, and cranberries are perhaps the most famous food sources of ellagic acid, but also some edible leaves – including wild strawberry leaves and blackberry leaves – have been shown to contain this powerful anti-cancer compound.

Tannins in Wild Strawberry Leaf Tea May Provide Benefits for the Gastrointestinal Tract. Infusion made from wild strawberry leaves has been traditionally used to treat diarrhea, indigestion, and dysentery, and now there’s at least some evidence to support this use. A study published in Gene, Genome and Genomics in 2011 analyzed the phytochemical composition of wild strawberries native to Chile and found that them to be a rich source of tannins. Also the leaves of cultivated strawberries have been shown to contain significant amount of tannins. Tannin-rich plant extracts have been widely studied, particularly in relation to their anti-diarrhea activity.

Buckwheat

Buckwheat tea contains catechins, natural antioxidants also found in green tea that have been associated with weight loss. It’s rich, nutty-flavored and is known to prevent the accumulation of body fat, aid digestion, fight certain types of cancer, decrease blood pressure and lower cholesterol.

Immortelle

Everlasting flower is an ancient herb, which has a long history of use. Traditionally this herb has been used for kidney and liver illnesses, and for gastrointestinal tract disorders. Everlasting flowers contain volatile oil, vitamins, glycosides, alcohol, tannins, fatty acids, minerals and trace elements. The properties of everlasting flower are anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, spasmolytic, cholagogic, diuretic and improving metabolism. The herb helps reduce cholesterol in blood.

Marigolds

Marigold tea is also known to be effective against painful mouth and stomach ulcers as well as colitis. Marigolds are effective in this aspect because they tend to stimulate the lymphatic system and thereby minimize the swelling as well as cleanse the body of toxins which may be contributing to the ulcers.

Blackcurrant leaves

Black currants with diluted XI century princely and monastery gardens . Leaves and berries of this plant are used for different purposes , since they have many nutrients.For example, black currant leaves are rich in volatile production , as well as tannins and essential oils. In addition, black currant leaves – a storehouse of vitamin C.

This tea helps to cope with the great thirst. Tea from the leaves of black currant improves metabolism, beneficial effects on the liver and kidneys. This drink boosts immunity during an epidemic of colds and flu.

Tea leaves blackcurrant affects blood vessels, strengthening them. This tea is good at heat as lowers the body temperature. Currant useful to those people who are experiencing blurred vision and heart function.

Due to the content in the leaves of black currant vitamin C2 called antipnevmoniynym factor drink from these leaves improves lung function . Blackcurrant leaves have a dehydrating effect, so make it easier for diseases such as gout .

Tea leaves blackcurrant increases appetite and is used as a prophylactic agent for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

Blackcurrant leaves possess disinfecting action , therefore can be used in beverage inflammation in the oral cavity. Tea helps with hoarseness and throat diseases in general .

Decoction of the leaves of black currant displays the body of excess uric acid and purine .

However, people with high acidity in the body should refrain from drinking this tea , especially in large quantities .

Raspberry leaves

As its name suggests, Raspberry leaf is the leaf of the raspberry plant. It is somewhat well known for its benefits during pregnancy, but it is beneficial to women at all stages of life.

It is naturally high in magnesium, potassium, iron and b-vitamins which make it helpful for nausea, leg cramps, and improving sleep during pregnancy. The specific combination of nutrients in Raspberry Leaf makes it extremely beneficial for the female reproductive system. It strengthens the uterus and pelvic muscles which some midwives say leads to shorter and easier labors.

The tannins in raspberry leaf give it astringent properties which make it soothing both internally and externally. A strong raspberry leaf tea or tincture will sooth sunburn, eczema, and rashes when used externally. Swishing with a tincture or infusion of Raspberry Leaf is great for the gums and can help alleviate the symptoms of gingivitis or gum disease.

The high concentration of Vitamin C in Raspberry Leaf makes it great during illness and I also use it as a base for homemade energy drinks.

Many women claim that it helped ease the symptoms of PMS, endometriosis, and it is helpful for couples who are trying to conceive. I personally also use it throughout pregnancy, even in the first trimester, as I’ve never seen any conclusive reason not to and the health benefits are wonderful during pregnancy, but I’d definitely consult a midwife or doctor before taking any herb while pregnant.

Blackberry leaves

Because of its acidity and high tannin content, blackberry leaf tea is useful for alleviating skin rashes, mouth or throat inflammations and diarrhea. In addition, the leaves vitamin C strengthens the immune system and promotes tissue repair.

One of the most famous health benefits of green tea is its purported ability to provide protection against several types of cancer. But for those following a caffeine-free diet, green tea may not be an option. But there’s good news: blackberry leaf tea, which does not contain caffeine, may also have cancer-fighting properties. A group of researchers from the University of Zagreb, Croatia, discovered that blackberry leaf extract had anti-cancer activity against human colon cancer cells in test tubes. However, given the novelty of these results, further research on these effects seems warranted.

A diet that is low in sugar and high in foods and drinks that have anti-bacterial properties, such as blackberry leaf tea, may also help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.

Blackberry leaf tea may offer some anti-aging benefits for your skin due to its effects on MMPs. A study published in the October 2007 issue of the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that blackberry leaf extract (derived from the Rubus fruticosus cultivar) reduced MMP levels in UVA-irradiated cells in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, blackberry leaf extract was found to inhibit the activity of Interleukin-1 alpha, a protein that is known to induce MMP expression. The researchers also discovered that blackberry leaf extract had strong antioxidant activity, comparable to that of vitamin E. All of these findings suggest that blackberry leaf extract may provide anti-aging benefits for the skin.

Sunflower leaves and flowers

Sunflowers are a special plant, in that every part of the plant can be used. The seeds, flowers, leafs, stem and root all have uses.

Sunflower leaf tea has been used to treat high fevers, and for lung ailments. Just a few tablespoons of sunflower leaf tea will stop diarrhea—so it is best to use it sparingly. The leaves have both diuretic and expectorant properties. Sunflower tea has astringent, diuretic and expectorant property to cure high fevers. You can also drink this tea for reducing malaria and lung ailments.

Viola tricolor (Heartsease)

Heartsease is one of the strongest detoxifiers of the medicinal flora. As such, it is not surprising that its therapeutic uses are extremely diverse.

It’s the best elixir in all kinds of skin diseases. I used it for acne with good results.

Heartsease tea is an herbal tea and has a positive effect on the kidneys by increasing the amount of urine, and eliminating more toxins. Also, promotes bile secretion and sputum. Has a role in encourage the elimination of toxic tumors of the body as sweat and role in stopping allergies and epilepsy. Heartsease is recommended by the herbalists to treat cough, constipation, bronchitis, renal disorders, boils, eczema, herpes, urticaria, pimples, acne, or dermatitis.

Helichrysum

Helichrysum tea is known for its diuretic, anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Considered one of the oldest healing substances in Europe Helichrysum is native to Africa, Madagascar and Eurasia. The plants can be annuals, herbaceous perennials or shrubs that can grow up to 60-90 cm. Helichrysum flower can be distinguished by its fringed margin and its resemblance with daisies.

Stress Relief: The same quality that makes catnip so attractive to cats, namely because it makes them slightly “high” and sedates them, can also apply to humans in a more controlled way. Catnip can provide stress reliefand reduce chronic anxiety as an herbal remedy when eaten, consumed in the form of a juice or tea, or when smoked as an herb. This can also help to reduce the secondary symptoms of chronic stress and strengthen your immune system.

Sleep Aid: Catnip has been used by people with insomnia or sleep restlessness for hundreds, if not thousands of years. The sedative nature helps to slow down the body’s natural cycles and induce a calm, relaxed state. People are better able to sleep through the night for undisturbed, restful sleep. Many people choose to drink a cup of catnip tea before bed to ensure a refreshing sleep.

Digestive Issues: Catnip is particularly effective in clearing up digestive issues, especially constipation, excess flatulence, cramping, and bloating. The relaxing, anti-inflammatory effects of catnip’s organic compounds can ease the knots and inflammation in your gastrointestinal system and relieve tightness and discomfort.

chemical constituents of catnip are particularly effective as anti-inflammatory agents. This means that catnip can be effective in the treatment of arthritis, gout, sprained muscles, aching joints, and even hemorrhoids. Topical application or normal consumption of leaves, juice, or tea can be effective for all of these situations.

Cornflower

Cornflower contains biotin that helps in strengthening the nails, prevents and treats nail infections, and treats hair problems like dandruff. Cornflower is used in many hair care and skin care products because of its anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is even used in shampoos and hair rinses to treat scalp eczema.

Cornflower is used for easing eye irritation and treating problems like sore eyes, conjunctivitis, and even skin irritation around the eye because of its effective anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. Cornflower tea is used as an eye wash to relieve swelling and pain.

The bitterness of cornflower makes it an effective natural remedy against a variety of digestive problems like constipation, diarrhea, indigestion, gas, and other gastrointestinal complaints. It also acts as an appetite stimulant and is therefore used for treating cases of anorexia as well.

The flowers of this plant are used as an expectorant, diuretic, and stimulant for gall bladder and liver function. It also supports and regulates the functioning of the kidneys. Therefore, people suffering from kidney, liver, or spleen problems can take prescribed doses of this herb for relief from symptoms of these disorders.

Cornflower is very commonly applied topically to wounds, cuts, and other ulcerations. You can either use the juice from its leaves or make a poultice and apply it to the wounds for quick relief from pain and inflammation.

Cornflower is also used as an astringent oral rinse for treating mouth ulcers.

Women suffering from endometriosis can take cornflower preparations to ease menstrual cramps and other related symptoms.

Cornflower has a calming effect on the nervous system and it therefore beneficial to those suffering from anxiety, stress, depression, and other nervous system disorders.

Аgrimonia

Agrimony (Agrimonia) has been used since ancient times. The Greeks used it as a remedy for ailments of the eye and the herb’s name is derived from the Greek word Argemone which means plant that heals the eye. In ancient Rome the great author and naturalist Pliny the elder deemed agrimony “an herb of princely authorite”. Anglo-Saxons used the leaves of this herb to help stop bleeding and heal wounds. Chinese medicine often used Agrimony to treat menstrual difficulties and during the middle ages this herb was used frequently as a sleep aid. In North America agrimony was used for a variety of ailments by Native Americans and up until the late 19th century agrimony was used throughout Europe and North America to treat skin conditions, cough, sore throat, and diarrhea.

Agrimony contains beneficial active compounds including catechin – a water soluble polyphenol and antioxidant and thiamin – a water soluble B vitamin. It also contains quercitrin an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that is also the source of its yellow pigmentation. Agrimony contains the complex polyphenol tannin. This bitter plant compound is a natural astringent. Also present in agrimony are palmitic, silicic, and ursolic acids. Palmitic acid is one of the most common saturated fatty acids in both animals and plants. New studies have found that palmetic acid may help fight skin cancer. Silicic acid is a compound of hydrogen, oxygen, and silicon that has been shown to be beneficial to hair, skin, and nails. Ursolic acid is a pentacyclic triterpenoid found in many herbs and fruits that acts as a diuretic and anti-inflammatory.

Viburnum (Cramp Bark)

Viburnum Opulus to Relieve Urinary Pain.Urinary tract infections and bladder infections are often associated with frequent and painful urination. Cramp bark can relieve the pain and decrease the urgent frequency as well. Of course, the infection itself will still need to be addressed, but cramp bark will ease a lot of the discomfort.

Cramp bark combines well with bearberry for bladder infections with painful cramping and frequent urination with little passed. – Herbalpedia

Viburnum Opulus to Relieve Spasmodic Coughing. Spasmodic coughing can be the worst kind of cough. This is characterized by a dry cough, meaning no mucus is expectorated, and often gets worse at night. It can be spasmodic in nature, resulting in repeated coughing that keeps you from sleep, burns the throat and is all-around unpleasant.

Antispasmodic herbs like cramp bark can relieve the muscle spasm causing this type of cough and therefore promote restful sleep.

Viburnum Opulus to Relieve High Blood Pressure. There are many causes for high blood pressure and many ways to find solutions for high blood pressure. Cramp bark can relieve tension in the cardiac muscle, arteries and veins, which can contribute to decreased blood pressure. This is especially suited for the person with lots of stress, tension and a type A attitude. Of course, diet, lifestyle and other cardiac herbs will need to be used to make a difference in someone’s long-term health.

Barberry

Traditional/Ethnobotanical uses

The plant has a long history of use, dating back to the Middle Ages. Salishan native elders have used M. aquifolium to treat acne and native American Indians utilized Mahonia berries to treat scurvy. A decoction of the plant has been used to treat GI ailments and coughs. The alkaloid berberine was included as an astringent in eye drops, but its use has become rare.

The edible fruits have been used to prepare jams, jellies, and juices. The use of the plant in traditional medicine has been limited by the bitter taste of the bark and root. However, more than three dozen medicinal uses for barberry, including cancer, cholera, and hypertension have been listed. Other reported uses of M. aquifolium include the treatment of the following conditions: fever, gout, renal and biliary diseases, rheumatic symptoms, diarrhea, gastric indigestion, and dermatosis.

Anti-inflammatory/Antimicrobial/Antidiarrheal

M. aquifolium is valued for its antipsoriatic effects and its antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activity. It also has been used for treating acne, eczema, and candida infection. Plant alkaloids have been found to be antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antidiarrheal. Berberine is a uterine stimulant.

Hazel

One of witch hazel tea benefits is that it can help with respiratory illnesses. There are ingredients in the plant’s leave and bark that have calming effects on the lungs – especially in times of an asthma attack. It is not that you would drink it in order to help with an asthma attack, rather you would want to soak a warm compress in the liquid and place it on the chest and neck of the person having the asthma attack. There are other respiratory illnesses that drinking the herbal drink would help as well.

The next thing on the list of witch hazel tea benefits is that it can help with soothing sore throats. Much like it can help soothe asthma attacks and the like, drinking this herbal drink will help soothe the sore throat while you drink it. The effect that it has on the sore throat should last for a good while after you are finished drinking the herbal remedy. However, once it wears off, you will need to be careful about drinking too much. It is best to limit this remedy to just three cups a day when you have a sore throat. All of the other times you can use throat lozenges and spray to help soothe it.

The final thing I will mention out of the witch hazel tea benefits is that it works as an anti-inflammatory. Not only does this herbal remedy help with inflammation due to arthritis, but it also helps with skin inflammations and internal inflammation of organs. If it is internal inflammation, then you will need to drink the remedy. If it is a skin inflammation, then you would do better to apply a cotton ball soaked with the remedy to the area that is affected. Of course, if it gets bad, you need to see a doctor to rule out a spider bite or some other type of infection.

Hawthorn

Heart Health. Hawthorn tea can be used as a heart tonic, because they may improve cardiovascular function in many people. The effect of hawthorn tea is that is increases the bloody supply and oxygen to the heart, so that the body’s blood circulation improves. That in turn can help people recover more quickly from heart attacks or other ailments that have to do with this part of the body. It can help with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, coronary heart disease, and improving circulation to the extremities of the body. Drinking the tea daily can help strengthen arteries, and reduce the level of inflammation or clogging inside of them, cleansing the system so that the heart can do its job better.

Calms Anxiety. Another beneficial use for this tea is its ability to help calm tension and relax jittery nerves that are caused by feelings of anxiety. This particular tea has a calming, sedative effect on the cardiovascular system which can offer a calming effect on those that are suffering from feelings of tension, high blood pressure, and uneasiness. The naturally calming effects of this tea are highly recommended for soothing those who are under a lot of tension or stress. The relaxing effects of this tea are especially useful since it can help to calm the body without inducing sleep, which is commonly experienced after drinking other types of sedative teas.

Antioxidant & Vitamin Rich. Hawthorn tea is packed with many different beneficial antioxidants and active compounds which can help prevent damage that is done by free radicals in the body. This helps to better protect our cells from abnormalities and damage which can in turn protect against the development of certain cancers. Hawthorn tea is also high in vitamin C which makes it great for building up your immunity. This tea also contains small amounts of vitamins A, some B vitamins, potassium, and magnesium.

Acacia

Relief for Cough and Sore Throat. Acacia gum is helpful in treating cold symptoms and relieving the sore throat associated with them. You may drink a tea made with the herb or gargle it to help the sore throat.

Gastrointestinal Relief. Acacia gum is useful in treating dysentery, diarrhea and other intestinal ailments. Make a tea or extract with the gum and drink is for the desired effect. Ahe acacia flowers are useful in treating a hangover, nausea and vomiting when made into a tea.